Nervous Nellie’s Jams and Jellies. Say it again…Nervous Nellie’s Jams and Jellies. Isn’t it fun to say? This quirky little establishment is located in Deer Isle, Maine. Not only fun to say, Nervous Nellie’s is fun to visit. At this point you might be asking, “Okay, what is Nervous Nellie’s anyway?” Well, that’s the tricky part. It’s one part jam and jelly store (they sell other stuff, too!), one part sculpture garden and museum, and one part….well, different! I can easily say that I’ve never seen anything like it in my life!

I want to ride my bicycle....

Good Knight!

The sculptures on the premises were created by Peter Beerits. I’m sure you’ve heard the expression, “One man’s junk is another man’s treasure.” Fueled by his imagination, a lot of trash, and obvious skill, Peter has created a fantasy landscape that’s fun to explore. People and creatures dot the landscape and draw the visitor deeper and deeper into the property. It’s impossible not to be pulled into the spectacle. There’s even a castle protected by its very own knight in shining armor!

Have you figured this place out yet? That's okay, I haven't either! At least, not yet!

One of the 'many' interesting sculptures at Nervous Nellie's Jam and Jellies

Just like a good book, Peter’s sculptures will tickle your imagination, and before you know it, you’ll be drawn into a fantasy world where skeletons sit on benches, dragons come alive, and bears play tin drums.

The jellies and jams found at Nellie’s are all handmade on the premises and they produce about 300-350 jars a day during the winter months. They have many delicious flavors to try. We bought two jars of Blue Razz Conserve to give as gifts.

The shop is filled with other regional treats as well: tea, coffee, honey, maple candy, and my favorite…float rope doormats. My mom first told me about float rope doormats, and I was excited to find them for sale at Nellie’s. If you don’t know the story behind the float rope doormats, make sure to go to their site to check them out. It’s an interesting story and an interesting cause. While you’re there, make sure to order a few jars of jelly, too!

Dog and Frog are Friends

This is one of my favorite pictures of Polly #3 from our adventure that day. If you plan a trip to Deer Isle, Maine, stopping at this local establishment is a must. My only disappointment….no frogs, or maybe I just didn’t find one! That sounds like a good enough reason to go back!